Just before the break, our 5th grade students participated in a meaningful experience called Hanukkah Around the World. Over several days, students connected via Zoom with families from the Bernard Zell community living across the globe, including Mexico, Brazil, Israel, France, and Cyprus.

Each day, students and families came together to light the hanukkiah (menorah), recite the blessings, and sing Hanukkah songs. Our guests shared insights into the unique customs and traditions of their local Jewish communities, giving students a window into how Jewish life is celebrated around the world. The experience was interactive and engaging, as students asked thoughtful questions and learned directly from the lived experiences of Bernard Zell families abroad.

Through this program, students learned that no matter where we are in the world, Jewish communities are deeply connected through shared faith, traditions, and values. Together, we truly brought light into one another’s lives.

Following the break, our 5th graders jumped right back into their Hebrew curriculum, Ulpan-Or. In this unit, students are learning Hebrew vocabulary related to food and practicing how to order food and drinks in a restaurant. They are also learning how to ask how much something costs and applying their Hebrew number skills in meaningful, real-world contexts.

This week, students are also learning a popular Hebrew children’s song, “I Love Chocolate.” Through this catchy and fun song, students are expanding their vocabulary while reinforcing correct grammatical sentence structures, all while enjoying the joy of singing together.